Operator Drill Rig - Wessels Mine

South32; Hotazel; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A mining company in Northern Cape is seeking an experienced Operator Drill Rig to safely drill blast holes. The candidate must have at least 3 years of experience in a mining environment and possess an Epiroc S2 Drill rig license. Responsibilities include conducting prestart checks, performing maintenance, and reporting operational data. The position offers opportunities for career growth and skills development within the mining sector.

Benefits

Employer contribution to retirement fund

Support for part-time studies aligned to role requirements

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years relevant working experience in a mining environment.
• 1 Year experience as a S2 drill rig operator.

Responsibilities

• Safely drilling blast holes using a Drill Rig.
• Perform asset care activities for the S2 Drill.
• Complete prestart inspection checklists and report to supervisors.

Skills

Drilling operations

Maintenance of drilling equipment

Problem reporting

Data documentation

Education

Grade 12 with mathematics

Epiroc S2 Drill rig license

Valid Code B/EB drivers License

Tools

Epiroc S2 Drill Rig

Lubrication system

Job description

Overview

DISCOVER ABRIGHTERFUTURE: At South32, we’re meeting the challenge of enabling a sustainable future through our focus on responsibly producing commodities critical for a low-carbon world.

As a collaborative, caring and inclusive company, there’s no better place to make a genuine difference. Together we’re making a positive, global impact that has the potential to change lives. Whatever career path you choose, we’ll support you every step of the way to learn, grow and succeed. So, join us, step towards a brighter future and leave your legacy.

About Wesell s

ABOUT WESSELS: The South Africa Manganese operation can be found in the manganese rich Kalahari Basin, in the country’s Northern Cape, which is home to 80 per cent of the world’s manganese. This position is based at our Wessels Mine which represents one of the largest manganese reserves in South Africa.

What South32 offers

• Eligible employees will receive an employer contribution towards the company-elected retirement fund.
• South32 will support assistance for part-time studies aligned to role requirements and business needs at accredited institutions to eligible employees.

About the role

This role is a permanent full-time position.

As an Operator Drill Rig, you will be responsible for safely drilling blast holes by means of a Drill Rig. Other key responsibilities include, but aren’t limited to:

• Perform asset care activities as required to the S2 Drill including accurate and timeous feedback and documentation to all stakeholders;
• Complete prestart inspection checklists for the S2 Drill, tools, other equipment, and work areas. Verify lubrication system. Complete and sign prestart checklist;
• Report problems and make recommendations to Supervisors;
• Report to control room and charge hand on any breakdowns or planned or unplanned standing times;
• Report to the control room the start and end of shift, engine and procession hours and power pack;
• Complete and submit operators report to the control room;
• Follow end of shift park procedure;
• Lubricate grease points and clean feed rails;
• Repair and report immediate breakdowns;
• Transport the machine to the workshop for major breakdowns and schedule maintenance;
• Obtain information, check for accuracy, and capture data;
• File documents per procedure;
• Must be able to work under pressure.

About you

You will have experience and demonstrate capability in the following:

• Must have a minimum of 3 years’ relevant working experience in a mining environment;
• 1 Year experienced as a S2 drill rig operator.

Qualifications for this role

• Grade 12 with mathematics;
• Epiroc S2 Drill rig license is essential;
• Epiroc S2 Boomer Drill Advanced Training certificate is advantageous;
• Valid Code B/EB drivers License is essential;
• Competency A Certificate is advantageous.

South32 is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate. We provide a recruitment process that is fair, equitable and accessible for all and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Please apply online by entering the preferred position reference number on our website 02 October 2025.